The Beanie Hat by Patagonia is is your go-all, be-all, low-volume knit hat, made of nylon and chlorine-free merino wool, for everything winter - snowboarding, skiing, climbing and everyday cruising.

The Beanie Hat's clean lines and adaptable fabric combination shift freely from warming up a chilly morning of bouldering to sliding under a helmet or hood on the slopes. The lightweight, compressible 2-layer construction features an updated moisture-wicking blend of 55% nylon and 45% fine-gauge chlorine-free merino wool for all-day, no-itch comfort and warmth. A polyester band inside provides fast wicking and next-to-the-skin comfort. The low profile ensures adhesion at maximum speeds.

This is a great cap for those days when you need more than a ball cap. Big enough to fit over the ears and keeps the head nice and warm. Available in enough colors to satisfy just about everyone. Not too bulky... just right.

I first saw this hat in 2009 at another store and fell in love with the "Classic Fitz Roy" pattern in blue. Since then I have bought three...in part because I lost one (sadly). These are by far my favorite winter hats because they are so unique, fit well, are almost always the right temperature, and heck, they are just cool to wear. They are so simple but yet designed just right.

I have the Classic Fitz Roy and "Wyoming Pride" patterns. Living in Utah, I have been able to check out Wyoming and I have fallen in love with that state, so the "Wyoming Pride" was a must have.

The fit varies. My newer Classic Fitz Roy is tight around the ears, but the Wyoming Pride fits perfectly. Regardless, they will stretch a bit and fit snugly.

Most importantly, this is the ONE hat that I keep on my head when I am hiking in cold weather, cross country skiing, walking, or just hanging around the cool house. Most other winter hats become just too warm for me.

I do wish that Patagonia placed the buffalo on both sides of the "Wyoming Pride" hat. Other than that, some great patterns, colors, and styles. I don't see anything else that is quite as cool.